My first half was a year ago, and after I finished I sat on a bench for a few minutes. It wasn't exhaustion or anything physical, I was just overcome by the feeling of having completed the run. Races are great. It's almost entirely about the personal achievement and personal satisfaction. Among the very fastest it's a competition, but the thousands and thousands of other runners are doing it for themselves (and also for a banana). And I love the race atmosphere. Everyone is so supportive. Congratulations on the great finish. For what it's worth, my current fastest time is more than seven minutes faster than my first half marathon. Your goal of eight minute miles will be a lot of work while totally doable.and being on the verge of tears!
Post race bananas are maybe the single greatest thing in the world. There were some really inspiring moments during the race, such as the blind runner being guided by his coach, or the marathoners with their baby strollers, or the 60 year old guy who ran at attention for a full mile as he passed a section of American flags. The atmosphere is amazing, you're spot-on about that. It's going to be a gradual thing, hopefully hit 8:20 miles, then 8:10, then 8:00. Do you have any races coming up?
I'm doing a charity 5k on Saturday. I'm planning my day to go run another six or so miles afterward to get my miles for the day. My next big run is August, a half marathon. I did the same run last year and struggled with the humidity. But I also finished that run feeling like I could do a full marathon if I just continued ramping up my training. I'm doing a full in November, so I figure the August run is a good benchmark along the path to the full. It's the only full I'm signed up for, but I already signed up for two more halfs next year. When's your next race?